With DJ Wagner Getting Deserved Hype, Veteran Coach Dwells on Kentucky’s NCAA Potential: “Calipari Has a Chip on His Shoulder”

Published 11/09/2023, 1:17 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

Coach Calipari faced some ruthless theories on Kentucky’s fall in tough times earlier this month. One of his former staff members even reportedly said that he was worn out, referring to his old age, and that he feels tired and avoids follow-up questions after the games. But the 64-year-old coach curtly responded, “I’m not changing,” thus defying the transforming landscape of college basketball, and set out to recruit the best of the best freshmen players.

As a result, Kentucky’s roster is packed with 5-star recruits who dominate the hardwood. The Wildcats are filled with young blood including DJ Wagner as the other teams grow old.

Kentucky getting its mojo back

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Veteran Coach Josh Pastner and Coach Calipari share a deep respect for each other and the same passion for the game. Their history walks back to their time together at the University of Memphis. Recently, Coach Pastner mentioned the everlasting chip on Coach Calipari’s shoulder, in a Field of 68 discussion.

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In Pastner’s statement, the chip referred to Calipari’s firm determination to prove that his methods can lead the Wildcats to championship success. He says, “He’s a Hall of Famer. He doesn’t have anything to prove. As it is but in his mind, he’s got something to prove.” This reflects Calipari’s willingness to succeed and his commitment to recruiting the best freshman talent on the team.

The type of attitude Coach Calipari holds is about challenging the norms and still winning the game. As Coach Pastner said, “I think people are sleeping on Kentucky, I think they’re going to be really good.” Moreover, Kentucky Wildcats are highly anticipated to reach the Final Four this season.

Kentucky’s promising roster is a blend of talented freshmen and experienced players. And with that, one of its key players, DJ Wagner has the potential to lock its place in the finals.

DJ Wagner giving Kentucky a winning boost

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The 6’4” point guard received a lot of attention. As the son of Dajuan Wagner and grandson of Milt Wagner, DJ will be the first third-generation big league player in the future. With two pros in the family, DJ has the right tools and guidance that will surely take him to the same level.

His impressive skills and unorthodox potential are highly appreciated and have made him a well-deserved up-and-coming college basketball star, who is destined to make a significant impact in the sport.

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What are your thoughts on Kentucky’s confidence as they tread into the season? Tell us in the comments.

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Written by:

Dimple Gupta

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Dimple is an NBA content writer at EssentiallySports. She has always been a sports-oriented person, and grew up with a strong interest towards basketball. More than playing, it's also about understanding the sport as a whole.
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Edited by:

Bilal Handoo